WVNCC | West Virginia Northern Community College

Certificate in Applied Science

The Patient Care Technician is a program which prepares a skilled patient care professional to perform basic medical services, help those who are ill or injured, and assist individuals who need help with daily activities. There is a growing need for patient care throughout all segments of the healthcare industry. Patient care technicians work under the supervision of a provider and have direct patient contact as a member of the healthcare team. Employment opportunities may include Assisted living facilities, Urgent Care Clinics, Community Health Agencies, Home Health Services, Hospitals, Laboratories, Long-term Care Facilities, Medical Centers, Nursing Homes, Physical Therapy Departments, Physician Offices, and Rehabilitation Centers. Students learn from instructors who work in the healthcare field and understand what it takes to provide top quality healthcare. Patient care students learn skills in a medical lab on campus which replicates the medical care environment. Students will complete an extensive preceptor externship in a healthcare facility under the indirect supervision of faculty. The Program has an advisory board of healthcare professionals that guides curriculum so the students learn the latest skills healthcare companies expect of graduates.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will:

Be eligible to sit for Patient Care Technician certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).